Linux Ricing
ricing noun /ˈraɪ.sɪŋ/
(Unix, slang)
Definition:
The act or process of extensively customizing and theming the graphical and terminal-based interface of a Unix-like operating system, typically for aesthetic purposes, minimalism, or personal expression.
The Desire
A while ago, in 2019, I learned what Linux is. I was amazed by hacking and decided to dive deeper. I downloaded a Kali Linux image and created a bootable USB. That’s where my journey started.
A year or two later, I installed Ubuntu on my laptop and never looked back to Windows.
Then, I came across pieces of art like these:
Sources:
I thought to myself: “This is awesome. I must do it too.”
And so, I decided to download Arch Linux and use the i3 window manager.
Endless Customization
i3wm is a desktop environment like Gnome or KDE Plasma, but instead of relying on a mouse, it’s mainly operated through keyboard shortcuts. Since I’ve always loved using shortcuts, i3wm immediately felt like home. And so began my journey of building my own version.
I began learning about the i3 config and how to use it. After a few months and many failed attempts, I finally created something that I can describe as an extension of myself. I now know almost every way to interact with it.
Inspired by this post
Maybe it’s not as beautiful as the white-themed ones above, but it’s functional. And most importantly, I love it. I have custom scripts, for example, in the top-left corner, displaying the IP of my server if it is up and running.
It all looks much more beautiful when you understand where it all starts. It begins with this:
- No wallpaper
- No packages or configurations (ecept i3 and linux)
You have to install and configure almost everything to make it look good. Philosophically, it’s similar to sculpting. You have tools and a vision.
What’s beautiful is that anyone can create something beautiful for themselves and use it.